Frequent cough, runny nose, nasal congestion, chest congestion. I only use a cold medication like this if my child’s symptoms are interfering with sleep, eating or if they are generally miserable with congestion. The antihistamine and decongestant combination in this cold medication will temporarily relieve most symptoms of the common cold. It opens up nasal congestion and dries up nasal secretions. It also helps reduce cough caused by secretions running down the throat. The Dextromethorphan (DM for short) is the cough suppressant part of this medication. It will offer temporary relief to that nagging cough caused by a “tickle” in the throat. The combination of DM and the other ingredients will usually help your child get some much-needed rest for a few hours.

HELPFUL TIP FOR TREATING COLDS

When I give my children cold medication, I have found that the nasal passages can become too dry, that’s why it’s important to use saline nasal spray throughout the day and a humidifier in the bedroom at night (see natural cold treatments).

SAFETY/SIDE EFFECTS

It is safe to use in children six-months-old and above. The sedative effects of the antihistamine usually overcome the “revving-up” effects of the decongestant to produce an overall “calming” effect, which will help your child sleep. Occasionally, the antihistamine has the opposite effect, which may lead to some missed sleep but is not dangerous. Uncommon side effects are headache, upset stomach and dizziness. If your child has a history of seizures, high blood pressure, heart disease, thyroid disease or is taking medications for any of these conditions, consult your doctor before taking this medication. If your child has Croup, do not use this medication because of its drying effect.

DOSING CHART

All doses are every 6 hours

Under six months

Not recommended

6-11 months (17-21lbs)

Ask your doctor

12-23 months (22-27lbs)

Ask your doctor

2-5 years (28-47lbs)

Ask your doctor

6-11 years (48-95lbs)

3 tsp (15ml)

12 years and up (>95lbs)

2 Tablespoon (30ml)

Thanks to Our Trusted Sponsors

About Ask Dr. Sears

AskDrSears.com is intended to help parents become better informed consumers of health care. The information presented in this site gives general advice on parenting and health care. Always consult your doctor for your individual needs. Learn More...

Recent Posts

It's a Virtual World: Setting Practical Screen Time Limits
(dailyRx News) Tablets, smartphones, computers, TVs — sometimes it feels like a screen-crazy world. As children use more screens in their daily ...